Maxalt is used to treat acute migraine headache with or without aura (flashing lights, wavy lines, dark spots) in grownups. It should not be used in preventing migraines or cluster headaches.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

Please drink a full glass of water with Maxalt.

Maxalt can be taken thrice every day (every 8 hours). A single dose of Maxalt can be taken when migraine symptoms appear. The second dose should only be taken if there is indication that the migraine symptoms are returning. However the second dose is to be taken 2 hours after the first. The dosage should not increase more than 30 milligrams (mg) in a day (24 hours).

Drug Class and Mechanism

Maxalt is classified as a selective serotonin receptor agonist. It helps to relieve the migraine headaches by narrowing the blood vessels of the head.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Maxalt at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Maxalt if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like history of chest pain, blood flow or heart conditions, ischemic heart disease, irregular heartbeat, stroke, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Also do not use the drug if you are consuming ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine). If you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine) within the past 14 days or another serotonin receptor agonist (e.g., sumatriptan) within the last 24 hours you should not take Maxalt.

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.

Your condition might be monitored or the dosage might be modified to suit you if you have conditions like

Maxalt may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages or some other medicines. So please avoid them while using Maxalt. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).

The use of Maxalt in children below 18 years is not recommended as its safety when used on children is not determined.

It is not used to cure migraine and in case there is headache that is different from migraine headaches you should consult a doctor.

Your blood sugar must be monitored regularly.

Pregnancy Info

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Maxalt to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Maxalt as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.